Unique Experiences

General Requirements

Must be a student at the University of Miami School of Communication
Must be currently enrolled full-time and returning with at least one semester left
Must have a minimum of a 3.0 GPA

The New York Shanken Experience

The School of Communication will select 10-12 junior or senior undergraduate and/or graduate students who are interested in a unique and immersive experience that will contribute to their personal and professional development in the communications field.

Students will travel to New York City during Spring Break to view several popular industries and network with New York-based University of Miami alumni to further expand their future growth and career opportunities.

Timeline

Applications Open – January 15th
Applications Close – January 29th
Interviews held – Feb. 3rd – 6th

Students must be available from March 10-14 to travel to New York City.

Requirements

Must be a Junior, Senior, or Graduate Student of the School of Communication
Must have a 3.0 GPA or higher

Application Materials

Submit an application
Upload Resume
Personal Statement – Answer the following questions in 250 words or less: Why are you interested in participating in the New York Shanken Experience? How do you hope this trip will contribute to your personal and professional development?

Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. Communication Bridge Program Fund

The Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. Communication Bridge Program, generously supported by alumnus Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., offers transformative experiences for University of Miami School of Communication students. This program is designed to cultivate empathy, build intercultural understanding, and develop cultural competencies through real-world experiences.

This competitive program provides opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students to engage with communities distinct from their own. By participating, students will enhance their communication skills in diverse environments while broadening their perspectives.

Traditional Experiences

Explore immersive opportunities such as study abroad, language immersion, cultural exchanges, internships, or research projects.

Financial Support

Receive up to $2,500 to cover travel and tuition costs for approved summer activities conducted between May and August.

Faculty Mentorship

Collaborate with a designated faculty mentor for guidance and support throughout your experience.

Timeline

Applications Open – January 15
Applications Close – January 31st
Awards Announcement – Early March
Experience & Reflective Essay Due – August 15th

*This fund is to support a summer experience.

Requirements

Must be a student at the School of Communication, currently enrolled full-time and returning with at least one semester left
Must have a 3.0 GPA or higher

Application Materials

Submit an application
Proposal Requirements (not to exceed 500 words):

Proposed Communication Bridge Experience

Description of home and host communities
Significance of proposed experience in host community

Proposed Summer Activity

Explain type of academic, internship, or research activity
Describe your relationship with the agency, organization, or host community

Please attach (not counted in the 500 words)

Include information about the program or sponsoring agency
Brief statement and signature of Communication School faculty in support of your proposed summer activity

Timeline

Applications Deadline – Nov. 4th
Notification – Nov. 15th
Decision – Dec. 15th

Students must be available from May 12-18 to travel to LA.

Requirements

Minimum GPA 2.7
Sophomore standing or above
Graduate students may apply
Students outside the School of Communication may apply
Course Instructor approval required

Program Costs

$7,290 credit costs (billable)
$2,000 program fee (billable)
$1,000 additional student costs (non-billable)

* Every UMLA student is eligible for a scholarship that will be applied toward the program fee.